Eco friendly activities and camps for the kids this summer

The summer is the perfect time to stoke your child’s interest in the environment, sustainable living and nature. With a variety of workshops, programs and camps happening across Ottawa, there isn’t a better way than for them to get a hands-on experience that will stay with them. Whether they are learning about local eco systems, or where their food is coming from, there are many opportunities for them to have fun and create special memories.

Here are some ways your children can connect with nature and learn about the environment at special programs and camps throughout Ottawa this summer!

Petrie island Children’s Programming

Every week, Petrie Islands hosts children’s programs where kids can learn about eco systems and the environment of Petrie Island. There are different age groups for your kids to join in their junior naturalist program (for kids aged 2-5) or their youth programs (for kids aged 7-12). Both programs are on Thursdays and are for 90 minutes to two hours long. Pre-registration is available and every year offers a new theme, like birds or turtles.

The Ottawa Children’s Garden

This community focused program welcomes children to explore the Ottawa Children’s Garden in Old Ottawa South where they will learn about gardening and what’s growing organically. Children will enjoy story time and special activities. The lush, welcoming setting is the perfect way for the kids to be immersed in garden life. Playgroups are from 10 am until 11:30 am on select days of the week.

Earth path Summer Camp

If you are looking for something that is more intension and possibly long term for the kids, you can check out the Earth Path forest school summer camp. This camp encourages kids to explore nature and their own creativity while building important skills that will last with them for a lifetime. They will learn wilderness skills, plant identification and animal tracking while having fun. Camp weeks are available for children aged 6 to 16.

Cardinal Creek Children’s Garden

This playgroup in Orleans, there’s a children’ community garden at Cardinal Creek Park (located off of Trim Road). With drop in times weekly (for a small contribution), kids will learn about where their food comes from and participate in munching on some of the harvest.